Struggle and Transformation: God’s Work in Jacob’s Life

During our May 24 Sunday worship, we revisited two pivotal passages in the Book of Genesis (25:23–28 and 32:28). From the prophecy before Jacob’s birth to his lifelong struggles and final encounter with God, we are reminded that:

God does not choose perfect people; He transforms struggling people to fulfill His purpose.

🧍 Jacob’s Beginning (Genesis 25:23)
“The LORD said to her, ‘Two nations are in your womb… the older will serve the younger.’”
God chose Jacob from the beginning. Yet Jacob was not naturally godly—his name meant “heel-grabber” or “deceiver.” He grasped his brother’s heel at birth and later used trickery to gain the birthright and blessing. But God’s purpose for him never stopped.

 🤼Wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28)
“Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”
This was Jacob’s turning point. No longer scheming, he faced God directly and clung to Him for blessing. Rather than punishment, God gave him a new name—Israel, meaning “one who struggles with God and prevails.”

 🌿Reflection for Us:
Like Jacob, we often struggle, fear, and rely on ourselves. But when we finally hold onto God, He gives us a new identity, a new path, and His lasting blessing.

At the end of the sermon, our speaker Kerry shared a touching word:
“God has a plan for everyone. I have done my best to live out the good plan He gave me. This is His story, and it is also mine, and ours. Hope, faith, love—Becasue God love us, and we love God.”